Dos & Don'ts For Buying Online Stamps

A knowledgeable buyer is a wise one. And you won't lose much money either. Before buying stamps, educate yourself about centering, faults, fakes, etc and what does catalog value really mean.

There are online sellers who are wonderful people , some who don't know anything about stamps and unfortunately there are also many scoundrels .

If you have other DOs & DON'Ts, please feel free to post yours. I'm sure I missed some.

DO:
--Check sellers feedback, S&H charges, return policy (especially for
high catalog value stamps) and payment options.
--Read the description CAREFULLY. Ask questions if you have any
doubts.
--Capture a photo of the stamp and enlarge it on you computer to
check for faults and types that may not be described.
--If the Scott number is given, do a search to see how much other
sellers are selling it for.

DON'T:
--Assume the description is correct.
--Assume that the stated catalog value is accurate.
--Buy items with poor quality photo images.
--Buy questionable stamps unless you are willing to lose money if it
turns out to not be was you had hoped.

Alternatively, you can buy from me.

Londonbus1....all the good points quigngt stated....then some !

Actually much needed information for collectors world wide.Thanks very much quigngt.
Anyway I'm not interested in buying online.:)
So it doesn't affect me:D

Well put! I've on several occasions have had to correct or educate sellers on the stamps that they were selling. Some are cool and or happy about. Others don't say a thing, then I don't buy!

Mike

Sometimes, things not written in the description speak volumes...

In other words, I would echo the "Don't Assume" sentiment. If a piece of information is not stated overtly, be sure to clarify with questions.

I've bought lots of things from e-bay and call me naive, I believe that most sellers (and buyers) are basically honest folks, but once in a while some jerk will make a bad example.

KirkS

Thanks for the valuable info. its good to keep in mind.